Equisetum hyemale

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Equisetum hyemale, commonly referred to as horsetail or scouring rush, is an interesting oriental-looking plant with leafless stems which is perfect for adding a unique touch to outdoor spaces. This small shrub grows between 2-5 ft in height and is great for container gardening, particularly in Japanese-style gardens. It thrives in moist soil and can be grown in full sun to partial shade conditions.

Being a bog or aquatic plant, horsetail requires regular water and doesn't tolerate droughts well. It should never be allowed to dry out within one to two inches of the surface of the soil. It has attractive ornamental foliage that can bring life to a garden and make it look vibrant.

When it comes to plant care, horsetail is easy to maintain. However, keep in mind that its stems and foliage are quite irritating to the skin and can cause allergic reactions, so it's important to wear gloves when handling it. Moreover, it is an invasive species and may spread to areas in the garden that you don't want it to, so these need to be monitored and controlled.

It adapts well in USDA Zones 4-9. In colder climates and regions, horsetail can grow in a pot, as long as you take the necessary precautions to protect it against frost during winter months. Make sure to provide ample protection by moving the pot away from direct sunlight and placing straw or mulch around it.